Designer Mixes
Hair Loss in Cats: Causes and Treatment
Bald spots or shedding in cats can come from fleas, ringworm, mites, allergies, stress overgrooming, infections, or pain. Learn safe home checks, vet tests, ...
Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Cats
Is your cat scratching, over-grooming, or getting scabs near the tail? Learn what flea allergy dermatitis is, why you may not see fleas, and how vets treat i...
Cat Dandruff: What to Do
Seeing white flakes on your cat’s back or tail base? Learn the most common causes of cat dandruff—dry air, poor grooming, pain, parasites, allergies, die...
Why Is My Dog Vomiting?
From food upset and stress to pancreatitis or blockages, this guide explains common causes of dog vomiting, what the vomit may indicate, and when to seek urg...
Quick Homemade Cat Treats
Skip filler-heavy store treats with these 5 fast homemade options—tuna bites, chicken sprinkles, salmon flakes, freezer treats, and broth cubes—plus safe...
Top Toxic Fruits For Dogs
A vet assistant’s quick guide to fruits dogs should avoid—grapes/raisins, currants, cherry pits, seeds, citrus peels and more—plus symptoms and urgent ...
20 Fruits To Safely Feed Your Dog
A vet assistant’s guide to safe fruit treats for dogs: 20 dog-friendly fruits, simple prep rules (no pits/seeds), portion tips by size, and a quick list of...
Quick Homemade Dog Treats That Beat Store-Bought
Skip pricey processed treats with 5 easy homemade dog treat ideas—from frozen pumpkin yogurt bites to sweet potato chews. Includes vet safety tips, portion...
Food Allergies in Cats
Itchy skin, ear issues, vomiting or diarrhea can mimic fleas, infection, or stress. Learn the true signs of feline food allergies and how vets diagnose them ...
Dog Not Eating or Drinking: What to Do
If your dog won’t eat or drink, don’t guess. Use this vet-informed guide to spot emergency red flags, check hydration and gums, try safe home steps, and ...
End-of-Life Care at Home: Comfort Tips and What to Expect
A compassionate guide to end-of-life care for dogs at home—comfort setup, mobility and hygiene tips, medication safety, quality-of-life tracking, emergency...
Caring for a Dog With Reduced Mobility
Learn practical, vet-informed ways to support a dog with arthritis, weakness, or paralysis—pain control, safer flooring, ramps, harnesses, exercise, and we...
Managing Pain in Senior Dogs
Not sure if your senior dog hurts? Learn subtle pain signs, what vets check, safe treatments (NSAIDs, injections, rehab), and what to avoid—especially huma...
Diagnose and Treat Fleas on Cats at Home
Spot flea clues fast with a simple flea-comb test, then follow a safe plan to treat your cat, every pet, and your home—plus red flags that mean it’s time...
Do Dogs Know When You’re Sick?
Dogs often sense when something is off—through smell, routine shifts, and body language. Learn common signs, what research says, and when it may signal str...
Can Dogs Smell Cancer?
Dogs may detect cancer-related odor patterns (VOCs) in some cases. Learn common “alert” behaviors, cancers studied, other causes, and practical steps to ...
How To Discipline a Cat
Stop scratching, play biting, counter surfing, and litter box issues without fear or force. Learn a vet-approved 3-step method: interrupt calmly, redirect, a...
About Shari Shidate
I’m Shari Shidate, a veterinary assistant in Frisco, Texas. Designer Mixes shares practical, prevention-focused guidance for mixed-breed dogs—wellness ro...
Complete List of Vegetables Dogs Can Eat (And Which To Avoid)
A practical guide to 61 vegetables dogs can eat, with simple prep and portion tips, caution notes for gassy greens, and a clear avoid list (alliums, wild mus...
18 Nutritious Homemade Dog Food Recipes (Meals and Treats)
Make your dog’s meals more nourishing with 18 homemade recipes for full meals and treats, plus clear safety rules, storage tips, and guidance to keep diets...